Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh announced on Apr. 20 that Senate Bill 1204 has passed the California State Senate, advancing efforts to increase transparency and legislative oversight in the state’s regulatory process.
The bill requires the Office of Administrative Law (OAL) to notify the Legislature within 60 days whenever it disapproves a proposed regulation, along with providing reasons for its decision.
“Greater transparency leads to better policy. The Legislature cannot effectively do its job without full visibility into the regulatory process,” said Senator Ochoa Bogh. “SB 1204 ensures that when major regulations are rejected, lawmakers are informed and can respond appropriately on behalf of the people we represent.”
Currently, when the OAL disapproves a regulation from one of more than 200 state agencies, it returns it only to the agency involved without any requirement to inform lawmakers. Supporters say this lack of communication can limit transparency and leave legislators unaware of important regulatory actions or their potential impacts.
SB 1204 seeks to close this gap by mandating formal reporting to policymakers. The goal is to give legislators greater insight into key regulatory decisions and strengthen accountability across state government.
The bill will now proceed to consideration in the Assembly.
